Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: urban gardening

  • Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)

    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, my history with plants was less “green thumb” and more “leaves-turning-brown-on-contact.” I once managed to kill a cactus. A CACTUS. You know, the plant that thrives on neglect? Yeah, not even those desert warriors could survive my presence.

    So, imagine my surprise when, during the depths of lockdown boredom, I found myself inexplicably drawn to a sad-looking peace lily at the grocery store. It was like it was sending me an S.O.S. with its droopy leaves. Against my better judgment (and the warnings of my roommate), I took it home. And that, my friends, is how my journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood began.

    The Unexpected Joys of Watching Things Grow (No, Really!)

    I’m not going to lie, the first few weeks were a nerve-wracking dance of Googling “how much water does a peace lily need” and frantically checking for signs of life. But then, something magical happened. My neglected peace lily, the one I was convinced I’d already murdered with kindness (or lack thereof), sprouted a new leaf.

    That tiny, green shoot filled me with an absurd amount of joy. It was like witnessing a tiny miracle, a testament to the fact that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t destined to be a plant grim reaper after all. And honestly, that feeling? It’s addictive. There’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing another living thing and watching it thrive under your care.

    Plants: The Chillest Roommates You’ll Ever Have

    Unlike my actual roommate who tends to leave dirty dishes in the sink and blast terrible music at 2 a.m., my plants are the epitome of chill. They don’t require awkward small talk, they haven’t once complained about my questionable taste in reality TV shows, and they actually improve the air quality. Win-win!

    Plus, they’re excellent listeners. Having a bad day? Tell it to the succulents! Feeling stressed? Confide in your monstera! They won’t judge (or at least, I don’t think they will…).

    • Bonus: Plants are proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. Science says so!
    • Double Bonus: They can even make your home look more stylish. Forget expensive artwork, just get yourself a fiddle leaf fig and watch the compliments roll in!

    Ready to Embrace Your Inner Plant Parent?

    So, what are you waiting for? Ditch that black thumb and join the wonderful world of plant parenthood! Trust me, it’s way more fun (and less messy) than you might think.

    Now, tell me, what’s your biggest fear about becoming a plant parent? Let me know in the comments below!

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant




    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant


    My Thumb Is Not So Green

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my nurturing nature. I’m more of a “forget to water myself” kind of person, let alone another living thing. So, when my well-intentioned friend gifted me a houseplant—a supposedly “easy to care for” peace lily—I accepted with a mix of skepticism and terror. I mean, I’d successfully killed a cactus once. A CACTUS!

    But this little plant, with its deep green leaves and surprisingly resilient disposition, ended up teaching me more than I could have ever imagined. Who knew such profound wisdom could sprout from a pot of soil?

    Plant Parents)

    My first lesson came in the form of a droopy, sad-looking plant. I’d overwatered it. In my enthusiasm to not be a plant murderer, I’d drowned the poor thing. Thankfully, after some frantic Googling and a whole lot of apologizing to the peace lily, I managed to revive it. It was a humbling experience, to say the least.

    Turns out, plants, like people, thrive on consistency, not sporadic bursts of attention. Who knew? (Okay, maybe everyone else, but I was clearly late to the plant-whispering party). Learning to be patient, to observe and respond to its subtle cues—a slightly wilted leaf, a drooping stem—was an exercise in mindfulness I didn’t know I needed.

    Growth Takes Time (and the Occasional Repotting)

    As the weeks turned into months, my little peace lily, much to my surprise, actually started to thrive. It sprouted new leaves, its roots grew strong, and it even graced me with a beautiful white bloom. I was ecstatic! But then, just as I was starting to think I’d graduated from Plant Killer to Plant Whisperer, it started to wilt again.

    Turns out, even with the best care, sometimes you need to shake things up a bit. My plant had simply outgrown its pot. It was time for a change, a chance to spread its roots and reach new heights.

    This, I realized, applied to my own life too. There were times when I needed to step outside my comfort zone, to embrace new challenges and opportunities for growth, even if it meant feeling a little uncomfortable at first. Just like my peace lily, I needed space to blossom.

  • Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Get Your Green Thumb On)

    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Get Your Green Thumb On)




    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Get Your Green Thumb On)


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Okay, confession time: I used to be a notorious plant killer. Seriously, I could wither a succulent in a sauna. Give me a cactus, and I’d somehow manage to drown it. It was a sad state of affairs. So, imagine my surprise when, during a particularly uneventful trip to the grocery store, I found myself inexplicably drawn to a droopy little peace lily.

    “Don’t do it,” my inner voice cautioned, “Remember Barry the begonia? And what about Steve the spider plant? Their demise still haunts my dreams!”

    But something about the lily’s sad little leaves called to me. Maybe it was the promise of some much-needed greenery in my life, or maybe it was the deeply discounted price tag. Whatever the reason, I caved.

    And that, my friends, is how my journey into the unexpected (and surprisingly delightful) world of plant parenthood began.

  • Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)



    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Journey Begins

    Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always a friend to foliage. In fact, I was notorious for accidentally offing any greenery that dared to cross my threshold. Cacti, succulents—you name it, I unintentionally sent them to the great greenhouse in the sky.

    plant parent bug bit me, and there was no turning back.

    Stress Relief? Interior Design Guru? The Unexpected Perks of Plant Parenthood

    Who knew that nurturing something green could be so therapeutic? These days, I swear by the calming ritual of watering, misting, and just generally hanging out with my plant babies. Forget meditation apps—give me a watering can and a fussy fern any day! Here’s the deal: plants are like leafy, low-maintenance companions that actually improve your air quality. What’s not to love?

    And speaking of love, let’s talk about how plants can transform your living space. Remember that dark, drab corner that’s been cramping your style? Enter: a majestic Monstera or a vibrant prayer plant. Suddenly, you’re not just a plant parent; you’re an interior design genius!

  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

    Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a plant killer. A serial one, in fact. I’d walk into the garden center with the best intentions, seduced by the vibrant orchids and leafy ferns, only to watch them wither and die a week later. My apartment looked like a graveyard of neglected greenery, a testament to my inability to keep anything alive that wasn’t powered by batteries.

    But then something magical happened. I stumbled upon a scraggly little succulent at a flea market, a dusty survivor with a “please love me” look in its tiny pot. Against my better judgment (and the advice of my horrified friends), I took it home.

    And guess what? That little succulent thrived! It grew new leaves, unfurled delicate blooms, and basically became my plant child. I was hooked. Thus began my journey into the wonderful, wacky world of plant parenthood.

    Leafy Roommates

    Now, I know what you’re thinking: Plants? Really? What’s so great about a bunch of leafy roommates who don’t pay rent? Well, let me tell you, the joys of plant parenthood are many and surprising:

    • Stress Relievers Extraordinaire: Forget the expensive spa day. Caring for plants is incredibly therapeutic. There’s something deeply calming about digging your hands in soil, watering thirsty leaves, and watching new growth emerge. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll.
    • Interior Design on a Budget: Plants are the ultimate home décor hack. They add instant life, color, and texture to any space, transforming your humble abode into a vibrant oasis (or at least a convincing Instagram backdrop). And the best part? They’re way cheaper than that designer sofa you’ve been eyeing.
    • They Make You Look Responsible (Kind Of): Let’s face it, keeping a plant alive gives the illusion of having your life together. Sure, you might forget to pay your bills on time, but hey, at least your monstera is thriving! It’s a small victory, but we’ll take it.

    Plant Parenthood for Beginners: Tips for Success (Even if You’re a Recovering Plant Killer)

    Ready to embrace your inner plant parent? Awesome! Here are a few tips to get you started:

    1. Start Small and Simple: Don’t go overboard with a finicky fiddle-leaf fig right off the bat. Opt for beginner-friendly options like snake plants, ZZ plants, or the aforementioned succulents. They’re practically indestructible, even for us recovering plant killers.
    2. Don’t Overwater (Seriously): Overwatering is the kiss of death for most houseplants. When in doubt, feel the soil. If it’s dry, water it. If it’s damp, leave it alone. Your plants (and your peace of mind) will thank you.
    3. Embrace the Learning Curve: Look, even seasoned plant parents kill a plant (or five) from time to time. It’s all part of the journey. Learn from your mistakes, do your research, and remember, every brown leaf is an opportunity for growth (pun intended).
  • The Ultimate Guide to Building a Thriving Indoor Herb Garden

    The Ultimate Guide to Building a Thriving Indoor Herb Garden

    Imagine snipping fresh basil for your pasta sauce or adding fragrant mint to your tea, all from your very own indoor herb garden. Growing herbs indoors is a rewarding experience that brings the joys of gardening right into your home. Not only does it provide a fresh supply of flavorful herbs year-round, but it also adds a touch of life and beauty to your living space. This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know to create and maintain a flourishing indoor herb garden.

    Choosing the Right Herbs and Setup for Your Indoor Herb Garden

    Before you sow the seeds of your indoor herb garden dreams, it’s essential to choose the right herbs and set up the perfect environment for them to thrive.

    Selecting Herbs for Your Indoor Garden

    Start with herbs that you use frequently in your cooking. Some popular and easy-to-grow options include:

    • Basil
    • Chives
    • Mint
    • Oregano
    • Parsley
    • Rosemary
    • Thyme

    Containers and Soil for Indoor Herbs

    • Choose containers with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Terra cotta pots are a classic choice, but plastic or ceramic pots work well too.
    • Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for herbs or vegetables. Avoid using garden soil as it can compact in containers.

    Finding the Perfect Location for Your Herb Garden

    Most herbs thrive in sunny locations. Choose a south-facing window that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights.

    Providing Optimal Growing Conditions for Your Indoor Herbs

    Once you’ve chosen the right herbs and set up a suitable location, it’s time to ensure they have the optimal growing conditions to flourish.

    Watering Your Indoor Herb Garden

    • Water your herbs thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
    • The frequency of watering depends on the herb, the pot size, and the environment. Generally, herbs in smaller pots require more frequent watering.

    Fertilizing Your Indoor Herbs

    • Herbs benefit from regular fertilization, especially during their active growing season (spring and summer).
    • Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Organic fertilizers, like compost tea or fish emulsion, are also excellent options.

    Humidity and Temperature for Indoor Herbs

    Most herbs prefer moderate humidity levels (around 40-60%). You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a humidifier, or placing trays of water near your herbs.

    Ideal temperatures vary slightly depending on the herb, but generally, a range between 65-75°F (18-24°C) is suitable for most indoor herbs.

    Pruning and Harvesting Your Indoor Herbs

    • Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents your herbs from becoming leggy.
    • Harvest herbs frequently by snipping off the top few inches of growth. This encourages new growth and keeps your plants productive.

    Common Challenges and Solutions in Your Indoor Herb Garden

    Even with the best care, your indoor herb garden might encounter a few hiccups along the way. Here are some common challenges and their solutions:

    Pests

    Indoor herb gardens are less prone to pests than outdoor gardens, but it’s still important to be vigilant. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

    Diseases

    Root rot is a common issue caused by overwatering. Ensure proper drainage and avoid letting your herbs sit in water. Other fungal diseases can be prevented with good air circulation and by avoiding overhead watering.

    Conclusion: Enjoy the Fruits (and Herbs) of Your Labor

    Growing an indoor herb garden is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By following these tips and providing your herbs with the right care, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful herbs year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, creating a thriving indoor herb garden is an achievable goal that will bring joy to your kitchen and home.

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant




    My Thumb Went from Brown to… Slightly Less Brown

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my green thumb. In fact, I’m more likely to accidentally murder a succulent than keep it alive. So, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a houseplant for my birthday, my immediate thought was, “Oh no, not another one.” I imagined its inevitable demise, a sad pile of wilted leaves joining the ghosts of houseplants past.

    But something unexpected happened. This time, something clicked. Maybe it was the plant’s forgiving nature (seriously, it’s a ZZ plant, they practically thrive on neglect), or maybe I was just finally ready to pay attention. Whatever the reason, this little plant became my unlikely teacher, imparting wisdom I never knew I needed.

    plant-loving friend warned me about overwatering, so I thought, “I’ve got this!” But I completely forgot about the fertilizer.

    Fueled by the best of intentions (and maybe a touch of over-enthusiasm), I decided to give my plant a boost. I envisioned lush, abundant growth practically overnight. So, naturally, I gave it a double dose of fertilizer. What could go wrong, right?

    Well, let’s just say my plant did NOT appreciate my generosity. The leaves started to yellow, and I’m pretty sure it glared at me with silent judgment. After some frantic Googling and a sheepish call to my friend, I learned that patience is key when it comes to plant care (and, you know, life in general).

    Just like we can’t rush personal growth or achieve our goals overnight, plants need time to absorb nutrients and flourish. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is provide what they need and then step back and let them do their thing.

    Lesson #2: Embrace the Sunlight, Even on a Cloudy Day

    Now, anyone who’s met me knows I’m not exactly a morning person. I’m more of a “hit snooze nine times and then reluctantly crawl out of bed” kind of gal. My plant, on the other hand, is all about soaking up those early rays.

    Watching it stretch its leaves towards the morning sun reminded me that even when life feels a bit gloomy, there’s always a source of light if we’re willing to look for it. It might not be the bright, shining sun we expect, but even on the cloudiest of days, there’s still a glimmer of something good to be found.

  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)



    Plant Parent: My Story

    Let’s be honest, I used to be a plant killer. I’m talking serial succulent assassin, notorious cactus crusher. If a plant had the misfortune of entering my home, its life expectancy plummeted faster than my patience during rush hour traffic. But something changed last year. Maybe it was the pandemic-induced need for some living, breathing company that wasn’t on a screen. Maybe it was a desperate attempt to bring some life into my apartment, which, let’s face it, resembled a very organized storage unit. Whatever it was, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot.

    And guess what? I didn’t kill them! In fact, they thrived. And so did I. Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys.

    Stress Relief: Finding Zen One Leaf at a Time

    Remember that feeling of accomplishment you got from finishing a puzzle? Or the pure joy of finally conquering that impossible level on your favorite video game? That’s the feeling I get every time I see a new leaf unfurl on my monstera. It’s a small victory, sure, but it’s a victory nonetheless.

    There’s something incredibly therapeutic about caring for plants. The act of watering, pruning, and even just observing them can melt away stress like sunshine on a snowdrift. And the best part? They don’t judge your messy bun or your questionable dance moves while you’re repotting them (unlike certain furry companions).

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant




    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant

    My Brown Thumb Turns Green (Sort Of)

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my nurturing nature. I’m the queen of killing cacti and forgetting to water even the most low-maintenance succulents. So, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a peace lily for my birthday, I accepted it with a smile that was equal parts polite and panicked. “Peace lily? More like ‘please don’t die lily,’” I thought to myself.

    But something strange happened. Maybe it was the guilt of potentially sending another plant to its early demise, or maybe it was the sheer audacity of this green thing daring to thrive in my presence. Whatever it was, I decided to give this whole plant parenting thing an honest go.

    Plant Care)

    Turns out, plants operate on their own sweet time. They don’t care about my deadlines, my social life, or my need for instant gratification. My peace lily, which I affectionately named Ferdinand, grew at a pace that can only be described as glacial. I’m talking millimeters per month, people.

    At first, I was frustrated. I wanted to see dramatic results, flourishing leaves, maybe even a flower or two (a girl can dream, right?). But as the weeks turned into months, I started to appreciate Ferdinand’s slow and steady progress. I learned that real growth takes time, both for plants and for people. We can’t rush the process, no matter how much we might want to.

    Lesson #2: Learning a Plant’s Needs is Like Understanding Yourself

    Here’s a newsflash: plants are actually pretty simple creatures. They need a few basic things to survive: sunlight, water, and nutrients. Who knew, right?

    I quickly discovered that Ferdinand was a bit of a drama queen when it came to his basic needs. Too much sun? Wilted leaves. Not enough water? Droopy disposition. I learned to pay attention to his subtle cues, deciphering his nonverbal language like some sort of plant whisperer (okay, maybe not quite).

    This newfound attentiveness translated to other areas of my life. I started paying closer attention to my own needs, recognizing the signs of burnout and making time for self-care. Who would have thought that a houseplant could teach me the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing my well-being?

  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, I used to be a plant serial killer. I’d walk into the garden center with the best intentions, promising myself (and the poor, unsuspecting fern) that this time would be different. But alas, my track record spoke for itself: a graveyard of neglected succulents and overwatered peace lilies.

    Then something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a quarter-life crisis, or maybe it was the realization that my apartment looked remarkably like a beige box. Whatever it was, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot. And you know what? It’s been one of the most rewarding (and hilarious) experiences of my life.

    Plant Therapy!

    Who knew that watching a leaf unfurl could be so darn therapeutic? Seriously, there’s something incredibly calming about tending to your plants. The act of watering, pruning, and even just talking to them (don’t judge!) can melt away the day’s stresses. Plus, unlike my goldfish growing up, they don’t stare back with judgment when I inevitably forget to feed them for a week (sorry, Finny).

    Here are a few ways my plant babies have become my own personal therapists:

    • Mindful moments: Caring for plants forces me to slow down and be present. No more scrolling through social media while simultaneously burning dinner!
    • Sense of accomplishment: Every new leaf, bloom, or even just a plant that doesn’t die on me feels like a major victory. Take that, self-doubt!
    • Connection to nature: Living in a concrete jungle, it’s easy to forget the beauty of the natural world. My plants bring a little bit of the outdoors in, even if it’s just a rogue spider plant hanging from the ceiling.

    From Drab to Fab: Plants as Interior Design Hacks

    Remember that beige box I mentioned earlier? Well, let’s just say my plants have done wonders for my apartment’s aesthetic. A pop of green here, a trailing vine there, and suddenly my place looks like it belongs in an interior design magazine (or at least a slightly cooler version of my grandma’s house).

    And the best part? Plants are like living art! They add texture, color, and life to a room in a way that no mass-produced print ever could. Plus, they’re a great conversation starter. Just be prepared for questions like, “Is that a real plant?” or “How do you keep it alive?!”